Middlesbrough have been linked with in-demand German-born defender Denis Kolinger.

Aged 24, the Lokomotiva Zagreb player measures almost 2m in height and has also been mentioned as a target for Boro’s Championship rivals Reading and Premier League club Brighton.

Tony Pulis revealed after Tuesday’s play-off semi-final second leg against Aston Villa that he planned to sit down with Steve Gibson and discuss targets.

However, it’s no secret that clubs constantly monitor players.

On Kolinger, the Sun writes:

“The defender has been outstanding in the Croatian top fight this season and his performances have alerted a host of English clubs.

Boro's Tony Pulis

“The 24-year-old was born in Germany but qualifies for Croatia through his parents. Seagulls boss Chris Hughton has Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy at the heart of his defence and could see the big Croat as an alternative to his first-choice pairing.

“Kolinger has another two years on his current deal and could be available for a cut-price £1m as he is keen to move to England this summer.

“The towering Croatian international is perfectly suited to the English game and his tough tackling style could be hit at the Amex.

“Reading boss Paul Clement will need to tighten up a defence that shipped in a staggering 70 goals in the Championship.

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“The Royals finished three points above the drop zone, a year after losing out in the Championship play-off final to Huddersfield.”

Boro do currently have options at centre-back, with Ben Gibson, Dani Ayala, Ryan Shotton and Dael Fry all vying for the two vacancies.

But, after staying loyal to his hometown club following relegation last season, Gibson could move on this summer should a sizeable offer be tabled.

Now 25, the former England Under-21 regular harbours senior international ambitions and, realistically, needs to be playing in the top flight to catch the eye of head coach Gareth Southgate ahead of the autumn Euro 2020 qualifiers.

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"If they do, then the Cottagers will likely use some of the £120m-plus windfall to try and sign Mitrovic permanently this summer. Rafa Benitez is looking to offload Mitrovic and Newcastle are expected to demand more than £20m for the forward’s services.

"Fulham would like to keep the Serbia international in west London regardless of whether they are promoted, but winning the play-off final will certainly increase their chances of acquiring the 23-year-old on a permanent basis."